PREFACE. THIS little work is the result of a visit to Jerusalem in the summer of 1842. Before that period, the Author was quite unable to form any distinct idea of its appearance from then existing works; not so much from the absence of graphic descriptions, for such abound, as from the desultory style of the writers, and the absence of a connected plan, together with the want of correct and well-chosen Views. On this last point he may perhaps be deemed to arrogate too much, yet his conviction is honest, that no Views of Jerusalem, at all valuable for the purpose of topographical or historical illustration have yet appeared, though so many have been published, which as works of art are very beautiful. This led him to form the idea of attempting to give a clear, con nected, and accurate view of the City, by gradually tracing its progress from the earliest period of authentic history, restoring its past appearance by a careful study of existing data, and exhibiting its present condition, in a series of Views chosen with express reference to historical illustration, and in which the local character should be the only object, and where, at every step, the past and present should be compared. If the student who reads the history of Jerusalem in the Scriptures, or in Josephus, or the pages of later historians, can find in this little work any assistance in bringing before him a picture of what they describe, the principal object of the writer is gained. The restoration of the ancient City was prompted by the admirable work of Dr. Robinson, to whom all travellers are deeply indebted. The Author has availed himself of his researches and suggestions; and though in some respects differing in opinion with the learned |